LET'S COOK: Making connections

Casseroles have the power to warm, charm and build communication

November 2, 2011

No matter how many casseroles have been served at Sons of Norway meetings, church pot lucks, Grandma's house, or family gatherings, another creative inspiration of a casserole waits on the horizon.

For years I have practiced this rule "If loved ones aren't responding to you with the zest you would prefer, invite them over for a casserole meal."

Once their lips enjoy this tasty meal, they usually come around. A casserole that has a selection of meat, poultry or fish which is married to vegetables, herbs, seasoning and liquid cooked slowly in a baking dish is sure to win most hearts and taste buds.

Article Photos

Charles Repnow is a freelance writer who lives in Rugby. His column appears alternate Wednesdays in The Minot Daily News.

For far too long in our world casseroles have not been considered to be communicators this is surely a mistake! The society of Casserole Communicators has known for years the peace they bring to the world when they show up on the doorstep with a casserole in hand.

Let's face it. With our busy schedules of today's lifestyle, many families find it hard to fix the nourishing meals that family members need. Casseroles are the answer. You may not agree, so let me ask you this. When was the last time you had time to press your shoelaces? OK fact proven. You are too busy for the seven course meal. Casseroles can be your best friend when you are pressed for time in the kitchen, and often they can be made ahead. Making a casserole for the family is a win-win because when the family is sitting down together, they are communicating! We don't need a series of studies to realize the importance of families sharing and talking about their day with each other. Now when this is done at the table, all those gathered around get the best perks and often some of the sweetest things life has to offer.

Most casseroles are easy to prepare, they have the appeal of warmth, as well as being very appetizing. Best of all, a casserole needs only a salad, beverage, and dessert to make it a complete deluxe meal. If you really insist on going all out, go ahead and add bread, and don't forget the table favors and hand printed place cards! You may have a trying day at work, and who knows? Some projects may have even veered you off track. Relax, and remember it is the prepared casserole that will allow you to keep your cool as you lay a plan to be successful.

I do believe the next time that Congress is in gridlock they need to recess and all process to the dining room for a meal. Just maybe after a delightful casserole they will realize and then be able to understand that getting lost in your own thoughts is worthless. However, while sharing this meal and discussing the concerns of others they may find the common ground that allows them to move forward for all of humanity. Let us forever promote the power of the casserole.

Recipes

This is a casserole that, when finished baking, looks like quiche. When making a recipe we should always first read the recipe through and understand it before beginning. This recipe requires a number of steps, but all are worth it when you taste the results. We have the pleasure of using dry mustard and its pungent flavor gives this casserole the gentlest of kicks. Pairing this with a lettuce and tomato salad and finishing it off with a pudding dessert will have all that have gathered at the red gingham smiling.

Many wonder which casserole to bring to the potluck. Here is a real winner and not only is it different, but it tastes great as well. The play of the sweet raisins and applesauce against the other ingredients are wonderful. Texture is an important element in food presentation and this casserole will walk away with the blue ribbon in that category. It would be a sin to present this unique casserole in an ordinary baking dish. So go ahead use your most matchless model of baking ware.